Interviews to select 100,000 young entrepreneurs across Kenya will begin on Monday in all sub-counties, President William Ruto has announced. The initiative, part of the KSh5 billion National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) project, is a joint effort between the Government of Kenya and the World Bank. Each successful applicant will receive a KSh50,000 grant to support their businesses and promote youth empowerment.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Nairobi Archdiocese of the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Kenya at Kasarani Gymnasium, President Ruto said the programme aims to identify and support 70 young people from each of the country’s 1,450 wards. “Tomorrow in every sub-county in Kenya, we will begin identifying 100,000 young people because we want to use their energy, talent and expertise to transform our nation,” he said.
How Will the NYOTA Project Empower Youth Entrepreneurs?
The NYOTA project is designed to give young Kenyans a head start in entrepreneurship by providing financial assistance and mentorship opportunities. According to the President, the programme is part of a broader plan to make youth participation central to national development.
During his address, Ruto also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the National and County Governments. He announced a new agreement with Nairobi County to involve private sector players in garbage collection and city maintenance. “Nairobi cannot continue to be the city of filth,” he stated, noting that both levels of government will also work together to improve roads, enhance street lighting, and create a cleaner, safer city environment.
At the same event, the President pledged KSh60 million to Starehe Boys Centre to replace asbestos roofing and expand school facilities. He also said 20 more teachers would be posted to the school in January 2026.
What Other Plans Has the President Announced for Kenya’s Growth?
Beyond youth empowerment, President Ruto highlighted his ongoing efforts to unite leaders across political divides. He mentioned holding talks with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and KANU Chairman Gideon Moi to build consensus on national transformation. He added that he has already engaged with more than 80 percent of Members of Parliament to align them with his development agenda.
“I will continue to engage all leaders so that we can make Kenya a First World. It is possible,” the President said, expressing confidence that Kenya could achieve this goal by 2055.
He pointed to progress made in stabilizing the economy, expanding agriculture, implementing universal healthcare, and building affordable housing. “In just three years, it has been possible to start construction of 170,000 housing units. In Nairobi alone, 93,000 housing units, 12 markets and 20,000-bed student hostels are being built,” he explained.
The President further revealed that KSh210 billion has been allocated to Nairobi County for affordable housing, markets, and student accommodation projects. “This is not money we have borrowed; it is money Kenyans have raised,” he added.
Governor Johnson Sakaja welcomed the government’s partnership, particularly in addressing Nairobi’s water challenges. He said the city has recently received an additional 140 million litres of water to serve residents.
By Yockshard Enyendi
